Julia Ling, born Xiao Wei Lin (Chinese: 林小微; pinyin: Lín Xiǎowēi) (born February 14, 1983), is an American actress most widely known for her television work, including her recurring roles on NBC series such as ER, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, and most recently, as a series regular on Chuck. Ling was born in Temple City, California.[2][3] At age 6, Julia Ling won the "Best Storyteller Award" by Chinese World News for storytelling. Ling's artwork was featured on the front page of Pasadena Star News and in magazines and festivals. By age 9, Ling was performing award-winning solo dances throughout California, and her umbrella dance had aired on national television. At Temple City High School, as a scholar athlete, she competed in dance, tennis, and swimming. In 1997, Congressman David Dreier recognized Ling for her community service at the local hospital.[citation needed] At age 16, after nine years of playing the piano, Ling graduated from the Royal Board of Music.[citation needed] At UCLA, Ling majored in biomedical chemical engineering. She was Treasurer of the Chemical Engineering Society, Vice President of the Engineering Society of UCLA, and honorary member of the Society of Women Engineers. In 2003, Ling made her TV debut on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. She starred in over 20 independent films, but is known most notably for her work in prime time television. She starred in the recurring role of Kim Tao on NBC's critically acclaimed Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. Other major guest and recurring roles in 8 Simple Rules, House, ER, Grey's Anatomy, The O.C. and The Deep End. In 2007, Ling competed in the martial arts competition Jackie Chan Disciples. She was selected as a "Top Four Finalist" representing the U.S. at the International Finalists tournament in China. Her performance also won her the "Best Acting Award". She was unable to compete in China because of her role as Anna Wu on NBC's Chuck. In 2008, Ling voiced and filmed her first live action series for the video game Command and Conquer: Red Alert 3.
